The Albanese Government has announced a major boost to support apprentices in the residential housing sector, doubling the current incentive payment to $10,000. The new Key Apprenticeship Program aims to address workforce shortages by encouraging more Australians to take up and complete apprenticeships in housing construction.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “Building Australia’s future is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about creating better lives, more jobs, and stronger communities. Today’s announcement ensures our tradies, the backbone of our construction sector, have the support they need to build a better Australia.”
The program, set to begin on 1 July 2025, will provide eligible apprentices with payments in instalments at six, 12, 24, and 36 months, as well as upon completion of their training. This support will complement wages, helping apprentices navigate cost-of-living pressures and enabling the government to meet its ambitious Homes for Australia Plan, which targets the construction of 1.2 million homes over the next five years.
Minister for Housing Clare O’Neil reinforced the importance of growing the skilled workforce, saying, “More tradies mean more homes. The billions of dollars we’ve invested in Free TAFE and support for apprentices are already paying off, but there’s more to do to meet housing demand across Australia.”
A recent review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System, led by Dr Iain Ross AO and Ms Lisa Paul AO PSM, found that financial challenges were discouraging apprentices from completing their training. The government’s plan addresses these findings by also increasing the Living Away From Home Allowance and boosting wage support for apprentices with disabilities.
Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles emphasised the urgency of supporting apprenticeships, stating, “The Strategic Review shows apprentices are especially exposed to cost-of-living pressures. That’s why we are making this investment to help address the financial challenges they face. Apprentices are the lifeblood of so many Australian industries, and their skills are vital for our Future Made in Australia plan.”
The initiative builds on the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Australia’s skilled workforce, including expanding Free TAFE and slashing HECS fees for university students.
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